Introduction:
The value of addressing body alignment, or “good posture,” is supported by the research literature and by the experience of expert voice clinicians and pedagogues. “Good posture” is considered to be an upright and well-balanced stance, in a tensegrity manner, where effects on one part result in compensation in another part (Schneider et al., 1997). For example, in the age of cell phones, anterior or “forward head” posture has been studied in relationship to the voice due to its influence on the shape of pharynx resulting in a shift in resonance (Hehman-Ackah, 2005) and stylohyoid shortening causing elevation of the hyoid bone and laryngeal carriage (Caçador and Paço, 2018; Rubin et al., 2007). Pelvic girdle tilt has also been explored with connection to lung volume and respiratory function (Caçador and Paço, 2018; Castillo-Allendes et al., 2024). The goals of this workshop are to explore the role that body alignment plays in voice production and mechanical breathing effort, and give voice professionals practical tools to support healthy voice production and easier breathing mechanics for patients with voice and EILO (exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction) disorders and for singers.

Methods/Design:
This will be an interactive workshop in which participants will practice different postural alignments including normal posture, kyphosis, lordosis, flat back, sway back, and anterior or “forward” head with relation to the plumb line (Wilson Arboleda & Frederick, 2006). Common misunderstandings of “good posture” and body mis-mapping will be explored. Participants will then implement techniques to adjust alignment, from the atlanto-occipital joint to the pelvic girdle, using a hands-on approach that can be implemented in a voice therapy or lesson setting. Techniques will include elements of (1) Body Mapping (Barbara Conable) or one’s perception and understanding of their own body, (2) Alexander Technique (F.M. Alexander) “method for getting rid of, (inhibiting) unwanted habit patterns that interfere with smooth performance,” (Jones, F.P., 1975) and creating “efficiency of muscle use (i.e.the appropriate use of the appropriate muscles for whatever is the task at the moment),” (Heirich, J. R., 2005), and (3) principles of motor learning.

Results/Conclusion:
Participants will leave the workshop with improved understanding of their own posture for optimal voice and breathing mechanics. They will identify various types of postural misalignments and utilize functional hands-on and verbal tools to correct alignment, that supports efficient voice and breathing mechanics, in a therapy or studio setting.